The Pandemic Baby Bust: Separating Fact from Fiction About COVID Vaccines and Birth Rates
After a fleeting surge in anticipated births early in the COVID-19 pandemic, birth rates in the US and other developed nations experienced a notable decline as the public health crisis eased. This drop fueled online speculation, with some suggesting a link between the rollout of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and fertility or pregnancy outcomes. But is there any truth to these claims?
Swedish Study Finds No Link Between Vaccination and Birth Rates
Researchers in Sweden undertook a comprehensive study to investigate these concerns. Analyzing health data from nearly 60,000 women aged 18 to 45 in Region Jönköping County, they compared childbirth rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. The results, published in February 2026, revealed no statistically significant difference between the two groups.
Approximately 75% of the women studied received a COVID-19 vaccine between 2021 and 2024, with 97% receiving an mRNA vaccine. “We’ve also looked at all registered miscarriages among those who became pregnant, and we witness no difference between the groups there either,” explained Toomas Timpka, professor of social medicine at Linköping University.
Confirming Existing Research: Vaccines Don’t Impact Fertility
This Swedish study reinforces the findings of previous large-scale research. Numerous studies involving hundreds of thousands of pregnant women have consistently demonstrated no evidence that COVID vaccines increase the risk of miscarriage or stillbirth. Major medical organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), have also affirmed that research indicates no impact of COVID vaccines on male or female fertility.
Dr. Viki Male, an associate professor at Imperial College London, emphasized, “This should further reassure women that COVID vaccination will not prevent them from getting pregnant or having a baby.”
Why *Are* Birth Rates Declining?
While the vaccine concerns have been largely debunked, the decline in birth rates is a real phenomenon. Data from the CDC shows the US fertility rate dropped to below 1.6 kids per woman in 2024 – a record low. Researchers point to several more plausible explanations for this trend, including concerns about economic stability, job uncertainty, inflation, and lifestyle changes brought about by pandemic-related lockdowns.
It’s also important to note that the general fertility rate in the US was already at an all-time low *before* the COVID-19 pandemic began, suggesting the decline is not solely attributable to a single factor.
The Real Risk: COVID-19 Infection During Pregnancy
While the study found no evidence linking vaccination to fewer births, contracting COVID-19 during pregnancy *does* pose significant risks to both mother and baby. Studies show pregnant women face a higher risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and even death from the virus compared to non-pregnant women.
COVID-19 infection during pregnancy has also been linked to pregnancy complications such as hypertension, preeclampsia, preterm birth, and stillbirth. Conversely, research indicates that vaccinated pregnant women who contract COVID-19 are less likely to experience severe outcomes.
Recent research suggests children born to mothers who had COVID while pregnant may face an increased risk of developmental disorders, including speech delays and autism, and may have weakened immune systems.
Shifting Guidance and Continued Recommendations
Despite the evidence supporting vaccine safety, federal guidance has evolved. The Trump administration removed the COVID vaccine from the list of recommended shots for healthy pregnant women and children last year. The CDC now advocates for “shared clinical decision-making” regarding vaccination.
However, major medical groups like ACOG and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine continue to recommend COVID vaccination for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do COVID-19 vaccines affect fertility? No, studies have consistently shown no evidence that COVID-19 vaccines impact male or female fertility.
- Is it safe to get vaccinated during pregnancy? Yes, major medical organizations recommend COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the baby.
- What are the risks of contracting COVID-19 during pregnancy? Pregnant women are at higher risk of severe illness and complications from COVID-19.
- Why are birth rates declining? Several factors contribute to declining birth rates, including economic concerns, job uncertainty, and lifestyle changes.
Pro Tip: Staying up-to-date with recommended vaccinations is one of the best ways to protect your health and the health of your family.
Have questions about COVID-19 vaccines and pregnancy? Share them in the comments below!
